MICHELLE'S F.A.Q.'S PAGE:
(Also see MY BLOG for more
info) |
Q. How do I make a drawing
so I can get an estimate?
A. Silestone and Granite are measured and priced by the square
foot. Your drawing needs to include location and type of sink
needed, number of faucet holes required, cook-top or range location,
backsplash location, length in inches of all sides, color choice and
edge choice. This information, along with your contact information
and jobsite address can be faxed to us at 314-315-4932. Our
computer will receive your fax and we can start on your bid right away.
It usually takes 1-2 days to receive a written quote. we service
the St. Louis and Metro East areas only.
Click here for a
Sample
Drawing |
| Q. Granite
vs. Silestone Countertops, which is best?
A. This is the question we are asked more than any other.
Getting the proper information about both products is the key to making
the right choice. Prioritizing your desires and looking at samples will also help you decide. If you like the look of Silestone, you will be happy with the fact that
it requires no maintenance or special cleaning requirements, yet still
gives you the shine and depth of natural granite. If you like the
look of natural granite, you need to educate yourself on the care it
will require. Certain types of natural stone have waves or uneven
patterns in them that aren't characteristic of Silestone. The
waves create additional beauty and uniqueness to your countertop, but
can also show more visible seams.
Whatever your priorities, keep in mind this
comparison chart
and don't hesitate to call us with questions or concerns.
|
| Q. Should I have a backsplash?
A. Most people choose at least a 4" to match their countertops.
Some choose a full backsplash that extends up to the bottom of the lower
cabinets. Others choose to go with a tile backsplash. One of
the disadvantages to a tile-only backsplash is that there is a joint where the grout
meets the countertop. If this area is not maintained by caulking
occasionally, water can drip down into the cabinets through cracks in
the grout. When a splash of solid stone is used, the two
pieces are bonded together with adhesive and caulking to create a tight
fit that won't need caulking in the future. Caulking is done above
the splash only. Since it is not in contact with water as often,
it will need fewer touch-ups, if at all. |
| Q. How long does it take to get my
countertops?
A. It takes approx. 2-3 weeks for the completion of fabrication
and installation once the templating is completed. Your old
countertops can be put back in place and sink and cooktop installed
while you wait for the tops to be finished. We do not recommend
templating over existing Formica because 99% of the time your cabinets
are not level underneath and so your pieces will not match up well and the final result
will look sloppy and uneven.
|
| Q. What is templating? A. Templating is a scheduled appointment in which the homeowner meets
with the templater who then makes corrugated plastic cut-outs of the counter tops so the
homeowner can see exactly what they will look like. Such variables
as seams, overhangs, edging and other special details unique to that
particular kitchen are discussed.
|
| Q. Do I have to do anything to my cabinets? A. We require that your cabinets be level to within 1/8" for the
installation of stone or shimming will be necessary. This does not mean each cabinet individually, but
the entire line of cabinets. This is the only way to ensure that your
seams look good and your tops do not have to be overly shimmed into place.
In rare cases, cabinets are so out of line they must be removed and
reset.
|
| Q. Why do I need to remove my old tops first? A. In order to get a perfect fit, we recommend that the old tops be
removed prior to templating. Not removing the old tops can result in gaps
between the stone and the wall and backsplashes that don't fit properly.
Also, since Formica-type tops hide cabinets that are not level, your
installation could be delayed significantly if this is discovered on the day of
installation. The tops that have been removed can usually be placed back
on the cabinets and a temporary sink hooked up if necessary while you wait for
your new Silestone or granite countertops to arrive.
|
| Q. What is the proper thickness, 2 cm or 3cm? A. We recommend 3cm because it is thicker than 2cm and does not require
a plywood base under it to support it. 2cm also requires lamination of the
edge which makes a seam and isn't as beautiful. Since the cost for 2cm
material in our area (Midwest) is either similar to or higher than 3cm, it has become the
standard practice to use 3cm.
|
| Q. How do I clean my granite? A. We recommend the use of a granite cleaner. They are specially
formulated to clean granite without leaving a film. You can also use soap
and water, but people with dark colors of granite notice a film build up.
Remember to seal your granite once a year with a good penetrating sealer.
This will help to keep it from staining. Some granites require sealing 2-3
times per year depending on their porosity and usage.
|
| Q. How do I clean Silestone? A. Silestone can be cleaned with common household cleaners like Windex,
409
and soap and water.
|
| Q. What are the rules regarding heat exposure? A. The reason that granite and Silestone both caution against putting
heat directly on their surfaces is because a dramatic change in temperature can
crack stone. If Dad just had a bag of ice on the countertop and then Mom
put a flaming hot broiler pan on there, there is a chance of cracking,
especially on the edges. So it is best to use a trivet or hot pad as a
precaution. Silestone is rated to withstand up to 475°
while granite rate higher still.
|
| Q. What about other products like
Caesarstone, Cambria and Zodiaq? A.
Other quartz products are also available. We prefer to
work with Silestone due to the fact that they have been in
business for over 70 years and have perfected their process. The
quality of their product, low prices, variety of colors, distribution channels,
availability, and quality of local fabrication makes Silestone a
superior choice for the St. Louis marketplace. We also believe
Silestone will be here in the long run to support their 15 year product
warranty. However, if you prefer another product, we can certainly
install it for you. |
|
CONTENT AND ADVICE DISCLAIMER
The information and opinions
contained on the Bruno-Built website are provided without any warranty of any
kind, either express or implied. In no event, including (without limitation)
negligence, will Bruno-Built be liable for any loss or damage of any kind,
including (without limitation) any direct, special indirect or consequential
damages, arising out of or in connection with the access of, use of, performance
of, browsing in or linking to other sites from the Bruno-Built website. It
is not meant to substitute for the advice provided by your own contractor or
granite professional.
|